Yindii App Launches in Singapore: Reducing Food Waste One Meal at a Time

Yindii, a mobile app focused on reducing food waste, has launched in Singapore, offering users a unique way to purchase unsold restaurant meals at steep discounts.

Originating in Thailand in 2020 and later expanding to Hong Kong, Yindii arrived in Singapore in August 2024, giving customers the opportunity to buy “surprise bags” filled with fresh, unsold items from popular eateries like Paul, Baker & Cook, and SaladStop! at up to 80% off.

Yindii connects restaurants with eco-conscious consumers interested in sustainable dining options, allowing them to save on quality meals while supporting food waste reduction.

Addressing Singapore’s Growing Food Waste Issue

The timing of Yindii’s entry aligns with Singapore’s increased focus on sustainability and food waste reduction. According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), food waste is a significant portion of the country’s annual waste output, prompting initiatives that promote waste diversion.

Similar platforms, like Just Dabao and Treatsure, are already operating in Singapore, offering surplus food from restaurants and hotels. However, Yindii’s model of “surprise bags” sets it apart, providing eateries flexibility in packaging various leftover items and offering customers a fun, sustainable dining experience.

Additionally, since 7 August 2024, Singapore has enacted the Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill, aiming to cut food waste by safeguarding food donors from liability, provided they meet specific safety and hygiene requirements.

This law shields donors from civil and criminal responsibility for any harm arising from consuming donated food, as long as the food is safe and the recipient is informed of handling and expiration guidelines.

The law encourages charitable food donations by offering liability waivers, but excludes certain scenarios like food shared in personal relationships or given in exchange for services. The Singapore Food Agency still holds authority to inspect food safety issues.

Key Benefits of the Yindii App

Beyond food waste reduction, Yindii brings several benefits to both consumers and businesses. For consumers, it provides a way to enjoy high-quality meals at a fraction of the cost, with discounts as high as 80%. This affordability aligns with the growing demand for budget-friendly dining options amid inflation.

Moreover, Yindii makes sustainable choices more accessible, encouraging eco-conscious decisions that reduce environmental impact.

Yindii X Paul Boulangerie, Source: Instagram

For participating restaurants, Yindii offers a cost-effective alternative to waste disposal, enabling them to recoup losses on surplus food while reducing disposal costs. This approach also benefits local supply chains, as reducing surplus can lead to less pressure for excessive food production.

Supporting Sustainability and Saving Money

With the app’s arrival, Singaporean consumers now have another option to make eco-conscious choices that save both food and money.

By redirecting surplus meals to consumers, Yindii and similar platforms hope to make a lasting impact on food waste and encourage Singaporeans to integrate sustainable practices into their daily lives.

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@thehedgehogknows

#AdultingHack Bought these 9 Delifrance pastries and desserts at just S$22 for the family! Love how the new Yindii app helps me save money and reduce food wastage. Grab your surprise bag/ meal at 50% off. Use my referral code <BMHDTRHM> to enjoy S$5 cashback credit after your first order! #thehedgehogkows #yindii #yindii_sg #adulting #moneyhacks #savefood #savemoney #savetheplanet @yindii_sg @Delifrance.sg @Tampines1

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